One mother's story of a family friendly specialty, and more reasons to Choose Psychiatry

 I had always been interested in psychiatry since medical school; the holistic nature of psychiatry and ability to spend time getting to know patients appealed to me. I was fascinated in the way that the brain, mind and body are interconnected. 

In my first FY1 post, I worked on a male inpatient ward (General Psychiatry) and the psychiatry trainees took the time to teach and take me with them on assessments. This sparked my interest in applying to psychiatry after my foundation training. 

Can you tell us about your years in core training? 

I spent the first year as CT1 in full-time training and became Less Than Full Time during my CT2 year, which had a positive benefit on my work-life balance.  

I have mainly worked in the General Adult settings, however particularly enjoyed training in Psychiatry of Intellectual Disability and Old Age Psychiatry.  

I have enjoyed opportunities to get involved in organising the Local Academic Teaching programme and presenting at the Regional Academic Programme as part of the Intellectual Disability course. 

You’re currently on maternity leave during your CT3 year – how have you found that, and have colleagues been supportive? 

I appreciated time that I was able to spend with my family and friends whilst on maternity leave.  

It brought a different set of challenges, however I was extremely grateful for this time with my son.  

I had support from my clinical supervisor and I found the Supported Return to Training (SuppoRTT) a helpful way to keep in touch.  

I was able to also access funding to complete my Section 12 approval course. 

Which psychiatric speciality do you want to pursue during Higher Training and why? 

I am having a tough time choosing!  

I have enjoyed working in Intellectual Disabilities and Old Age.  

Most of my placements have been in General Adult psychiatry, which I was unsure of at first, however with experience I have found that I have grown to enjoy the speciality.  

I think liaison psychiatry could offer a good mixture of different specialties. 

What are you most looking forward to in Higher Training? 

I am looking forward to being involved in Mental Health Act assessments and having dedicated time to participate in research. 

Would you recommend psychiatry as a career to medical students and foundation doctors? 

I think if you are someone who likes working as part of a team, holistically, compassionately and are interested in how the mind works, psychiatry is a great career choice.  

Psychiatry offers a wide range of sub-specialties, so there tends to be an area of interest for everyone.  

I also like the fact that there are lots of opportunities for involvement in education and research. 

Where do you hope to be in your career in five years’ time? 

I hope that I have become a Consultant within my chosen speciality!  

I am looking forward to having some stability in terms of location and not having to move jobs frequently.